Ikea Canada will soon sell an inflatable chair and the internet is divided
If you’re a ’90s kid, you’re probably no stranger to the inflatable chair. Well, Ikea Canada is bringing it back, but it has left the internet divided.
The Swedish furniture company debuted its Ikea PS collection 31 years ago. The furniture line is set to return globally for its 10th edition, which the company says centres on playful functionality.
“PS is all about embracing simplicity and finding the excitement in each object. Every piece has a clear function, which is elevated by expressive details that are a little mischievous, while inviting you to touch, discover and play,” reads a statement from Maria O’Brian, creative leader at Ikea of Sweden.
Ikea shared a sneak peek of three new pieces that will be sold in stores across Canada and online starting May 14.
One of the pieces that has caused a stir online is an inflatable easy chair that was decades in the making.
CNW Group/Ikea Canada Limited Partnership
“It has been an obsession at Ikea since the ’90s, but attempt after attempt fell short. When Mikael Axelsson decided to give it another try, most of his team shook their heads and left him to the challenge,” explained Ikea Canada.
According to the furniture store, Axelsson was driven by the question of whether air as a material could provide the same comfort as foam.
“He hand-welded 20 prototypes — trying everything, including a tractor tire — before landing on a solution: two separate adjustable air chambers held within a tubular chrome frame, giving the chair stability and a compact silhouette,” recounted the company.
According to Ikea Canada, the chair arrives flat-packed in a deep emerald green fabric and includes a foot pump. It has reportedly passed every durability test the company runs on its armchairs.
Internet reacts to the new Ikea Canada inflatable chair
CNW Group/Ikea Canada Limited Partnership
There have been mixed responses to the inflatable chair.
One person asked for the internet’s opinion in the subreddit Ikea.
“Great way to use fewer resources. Air is free and environmentally friendly. Great for when you need to move,” reads one reply. “What I don’t like? The colour (too niche) and the too-low back. No good for lounging. If I’m not going to lounge, I’ll sit on a dining chair.”
Another Redditor agreed on its portability.
“I actually really like the idea and aesthetic! The fact that it’s inflatable seems like a plus to me as someone who lives in an apartment in a large city, so it’s more portable if I need to move, but we’ll see if it’s actually comfortable to sit on,” reads the comment.
Others like the design, but are disappointed that it’s inflatable.
“I love the look and hate that it’s inflatable. Pass for me,” wrote one Redditor.
“Disappointed beyond belief that this thing is inflatable. Holy crap,” added another.
Cat owners aren’t too optimistic about its durability.
Others argue that this is a “recession indicator.”
“Recession so bad, we can’t afford filling materials anymore,” reads one comment.
Besides the inflatable chair, Ikea Canada is also introducing a rocking bench and a three-directional floor lamp. Learn more about the new collection online.